There are essentially two ways to "build" a vacation: you can start by choosing a destination that appeals and then look for a lodging, or you can start by choosing a place to stay that's so appealing that what's in the area is just a bonus. I was lucky enough to stumble upon The School House Motel when driving up North Conway's route 16 - but I'll be back, just to enjoy the wonderful hospitality again.

To me, convenience, cleanliness, and the congeniality of the hosts counts for a lot, and the School House Motel comes up a winner on all fronts. The motel - as immaculate as any you will find and tended by the friendliest of hosts, the Love family - is set right in the center of things, within easy walking distance to a huge variety of shops, activities and restaurants. Do plan to use your car when exploring the area - I set off to the nearby shops on foot, but found so much at such great prices I had to call a taxi to help me get all my bags back to the motel! I did enjoy being able to walk to a nearby restaurant for dinner - and was glad of the opportunity to walk back and walk off some of those delicious calories.